Fremantle have placed forward Áine Tighe on the Club’s inactive list for the 2026 AFLW season as she continues to rehabilitate her knee injury. 

Tighe sustained an injury to her right knee in the Club’s Round 9 clash with Melbourne in October 2025 and was ruled out of the remainder of the game at three-quarter time. 

The Round 9 game was Tighe’s first return to football since Round 4 of the 2024 NAB AFLW Season, where the key forward had sustained an ACL injury in her right knee. 

Fremantle General Manager of Women’s Football Claire Heffernan said the decision was made following ongoing discussions, and the Club is committed to continue supporting Tighe through her recovery. 

“After ongoing consultation with Áine and her management, the decision has been made to place Tighe on the inactive list for 2026,” Heffernan said. 

“Áine has been incredibly diligent in her rehab, but given the complexities surrounding her knee injury, this decision gives her the best opportunity to prioritise her long-term health. 

Heffernan said she is pleased Tighe can continue to impact the playing group in 2026 through her dedication to her rehab as well as her coaching and leadership capabilities. 

“While she won’t be stepping on field in 2026, it’s very important to both Áine and the program that she stays connected to playing group.  

“Áine is a natural leader who is deeply respected by her teammates and staff members. Her football IQ, professionalism and coaching experience as the Female NGA and Game Development Coach make her an invaluable asset to the club and our program”. 

Tighe is currently contracted with Fremantle until the end of the 2027 NAB AFLW Season. 

Fremantle will have one list spot available heading into the AFLW Pre-Season Draft on Monday 4 May.